UK Hospitals Strain Under Flu and Virus Surge

Numerous NHS hospitals across the UK, including those in Liverpool, Birmingham, and Northamptonshire, have declared critical incidents due to overwhelming patient demand, driven by high levels of flu and other winter viruses like COVID-19, RSV, and norovirus. This has resulted in extended waiting times in emergency departments, with some patients experiencing delays of up to 91 hours for treatment. Hospitals have taken measures such as cancelling non-urgent operations, implementing mask mandates, and urging patients to use alternative services like NHS 111. Health Secretary Wes Streeting expressed his shame at the current state of NHS patient care, acknowledging the severe pressures hospitals face. The public is advised to avoid A&E unless absolutely necessary, with local GPs and pharmacies suggested for non-critical issues. The East Midlands Ambulance Service announced its first-ever critical incident due to patient demand and pressure on local hospitals.